Iván Fresneda left the Sporting match in tears, Rui Borges reveals why | OneFootball

Sporting defeated Vitória 4-1 in Guimarães, in the 15th round of the Liga Betclic, and at the end of the match, Rui Borges praised the team's performance, responded to external criticism, and highlighted the group’s unity. The Sporting coach rejected the idea of a weakened Sporting, emphasized the collective quality shown, and also took the opportunity to dedicate the victory to Iván Fresneda, who lost a family member.

"It was a good win, a great win," he said to SportTV, highlighting that the team was always connected to the game. According to the coach, "with the ball we always had a lot of quality" and the second goal is proof of that, describing it as "an extraordinary play."

The coach also took the opportunity to respond to opinions that pointed to Sporting being diminished before the match. "Today I read or heard that this was a diminished Sporting. The diminished Sporting were back-to-back champions last season and today showed that again." For Rui Borges, the team showed that it remains strong, regardless of absences.

Regarding Rui Silva's mistake that led to the goal for the Minho side, the coach was clear in defending his players: "It's part of the game, they know everyone will make mistakes. The coach will take responsibility for any mistake. No matter who it is, there’s no problem at all." Rui Borges also emphasized the spirit of unity within the group.

Finally, the coach left a special dedication and a message to the fans. "I want to dedicate the victory to Iván, who had the misfortune of losing a family member," he said, adding that the team must stay focused on themselves: "Sporting has to hold on to itself." Rui Borges concluded by wishing everyone happy holidays: "Also, I wish everyone a Merry Christmas, with lots of health."

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇵🇹 here.